Mrs. Carolyn Edith Freeman Ryder transitioned peacefully Thursday at Midtown Medical Center at the age of 75.

The beloved daughter of the late George, Sr. and Margaret Ford Freeman, Mrs. Ryder was born in Birmingham, AL., where she was a graduate of Ullmand High School. She furthered her education by obtaining her Bachelors degree from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania and her Masters degree from Temple University. She retired following 24 years with the State of Georgia as the Developmental Services Chief at New Horizons. She was a member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church where she served as an Usher, with the Couples Sunday School Class and Vacation Bible School, and alongside her husband as Instructors for the New Members Class. She was also the chairperson for the Wash Ford Family Reunion for many years. Other than her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, David Ryder and five siblings, George and Alfred Freeman, Bernice Brewster, Gloria Brunt and Nellie Hackett.

Surviving her departure with cherished memories include: her husband of 51 years, Mr. Orlando A. Ryder; two beloved sons, Stephen Ryder and Dana Ryder (Nakone); five grandchildren, Shanta Thomas, Jasmine, Keith, Justin and Raven Ryder; six great grandchildren, a brother, William Freeman (Billie); a loving and devoted cousin, Gladys Ford and family; a host of nieces and nephews, other loving cousins and friends.

The Homegoing Celebration for Mrs. Ryder will be Friday, November 16, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church with interment at Green Acres Cemetery. Pastor Emmitt Aniton, Jr. will officiate.

Visitation will begin Thursday at 2:00 p.m. with a Family Hour beginning at 6:00 p.m.

The Staff of Progressive Funeral Home is honored to support the family with End of Life Services.